`Invention` Protection

rusman

Hello everyone-
 
I have an idea for a product, but I`m concerned about how to protect it. Let me use an example that will hopefully help.
 
For example, I have thought of the idea of a standard, round ball, Christmas ornament. I haven`t seen or heard of this product before. I can make them in many different colors and sizes, and I can also put artwork or other logos on them. It seems it would be easy enough for a competitor to create a similar product with different colors, shapes and artwork/logos.
 
What type of protection would I need (TM, Patent, C), and would that protect my idea when competitors start selling a similar, but slightly different, product, as stated above?

rusman

Good idea on the non-compete/nda. Thanks for the reply, however I have a question:
I thought a patent was for a `process`? Given my example, this wouldn`t be a new process to make the Christmas ornament, but it would require a new mold (or whatever is used to make the shapes). Given that, would it still be patent-able?

patentandtrademark

Consult and be prepared to pay a patent attorney.  I disagree that it is always the case that "patents are pretty specific and any minor alteration by a competitor and they are not in violation of your patent."

rusman

How much, ballpark, would I be expected to pay a patent attorney? I know that fees vary, but just a close guess would help me budget.